---
name: make-a-simple-monthly-budget
description: "Paste what you earn and spend by category, and get a one-page budget with a clear number for each line and where you could save."
---

# Make a simple monthly budget

Paste what you earn and spend by category, and get a one-page budget with a clear number for each line and where you could save.

## Inputs

Ask the person for any of these you do not already have:

- **What comes in and goes out each month, by category** (`{{totals}}`). Category totals only. Never paste account numbers, card numbers or passwords.. Example: Take-home pay $4,800. Rent $1,650. Groceries about $700. Eating out $350. Car payment $320, gas $180, insurance $140. Phone and internet $150. Streaming and apps $65. Kids' activities $200. Credit card minimum $120. Everything else, roughly $400.
- **What do you want this budget to do?** (`{{goal}}`). Example: Stop running out before payday and put $300 a month toward an emergency fund

## Instructions

Help me make a simple monthly budget from these totals: {{totals}}
My goal: {{goal}}
Give me: (1) a table with each category, what I spend now, and a suggested monthly amount, grouped into "Must pay" (housing, utilities, minimum payments), "Everyday" (groceries, gas) and "Choices" (eating out, subscriptions), with totals for each group; (2) the money left over at the end of the month, now and with the suggested amounts; (3) the two or three changes that do the most for my goal, each with the dollar amount it frees up; and (4) one simple habit to keep the budget on track.
Rules: only use the numbers I gave you and show your math. If my numbers do not add up, or something common seems missing (like rent, insurance or debt payments), ask me before you fill it in. Do not suggest specific banks, apps or investments, and do not give tax or investment advice. Keep it plain and non-judgmental.

## Afterwards

Ask the person "Did it work? (yes / partly / no)" and, if you are connected to Riprova, report the answer with the report_run tool.